Eugene Henley Jr., widely recognized as “Big U,” pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to a series of federal charges stemming from a sweeping racketeering indictment unsealed last month. Appearing in a downtown Los Angeles courtroom for his arraignment, Henley entered a not guilty plea to all charges. His trial is scheduled to begin on May 20. If convicted, he faces the possibility of life in prison.
Federal prosecutors allege Henley headed what they’ve called the “Big U Enterprise,” a criminal organization that allegedly leveraged his influence—including ties to the Rollin’ 60s Crips and other local gangs—to target individuals and businesses across Los Angeles. The indictment includes serious allegations of murder, extortion, robbery, fraud, sex trafficking, illegal gambling, and other criminal acts.
Following the unsealing of the indictment on March 19, Henley took to social media to publicly deny the accusations. “I ain’t been nothing but a help to our community,” he said. “But, I guess it is what it is. This is the price of being Black and trying to help your community and do what you can.”
Prosecutors are charging Henley with a host of offenses, including conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, multiple counts of Hobbs Act robbery and extortion, transporting a person across state lines for prostitution under the Mann Act, numerous counts of wire fraud and embezzlement from federally funded programs, as well as charges of bank fraud, tax evasion, and failure to file tax returns.
In a public statement, U.S. Attorney Joseph McNally addressed the impact of the charges. “As the indictment alleges, Mr. Henley led a criminal enterprise whose conduct ranged from murder to sophisticated fraud that included stealing from taxpayers and a charity,” he said. “Eradicating gangs and organized crime is the Department of Justice’s top priority. Today’s charges against the leadership of this criminal outfit will make our neighborhoods in Los Angeles safer.”
Henley, known both for his past gang affiliations and more recently for his involvement in community outreach and youth mentorship, has been a visible figure in L.A.’s efforts to address violence and uplift underserved neighborhoods. With the trial approaching, the case is expected to draw national attention as it unfolds in the months ahead.